Switzerland is a country of stunning nature, urban culture, and amazing chocolate. It is a land of four languages, epic train rides, Alpine highs, and cosmopolitan city life.
It has been attracting tourists who come there to get away and enjoy the glorious outdoors. Rural tourism is especially popular as numerous people flock to the countryside looking for a break and simpler life.
The striking landscapes invite for immediate action, you can hike, swim, ski, snowboard, or ride a bike. One thing is for certain, you will always have an amazing view.
The 41285 square kilometers country Switzerland has more than 1500 lakes and holds six percent of the freshwater stock of Europe. The rivers Rhine, Inn, Ticino, and Rhone are four major rivers in the country.
Numerous lakes are located high in the mountains and Switzerland shares them with neighbors but some lakes are entirely located in the country. Due to their location, they are surrounded with a magnificent mountainous backdrop which coupled with crystal clear blue water make them heaven on Earth.
Lake Brienz
One of these enchanting lakes is the lake Brienz in the Bernese Oberland. This turquoise gem, as many call it, offers experiences that will last a lifetime. You can enjoy the view of the lake on the mountain slopes, or discover picturesque villages surrounding it. One of those villages is Iseltwald. A perfect spot for spending a serene holiday.
Iseltwald
This old fishing village has only 400 inhabitants and a perfect location on the peninsular halfway along the aforementioned southern shore of the Lake Brienz. Driving into the Iseltwald is only allowed for locals or guests in one of the four gasthauses.
The only island in the canton of Bern belongs to this village. The island has been used as a breeding place for snails in the middle ages, that is how it got its name The Snaggeninseli or Snail Island. The entire village is a part of Swiss Heritage Sites. This amazing spot is a very popular stopping point for tourists who are on Lake Brenz cruise between Interlaken and Brienz.
It has a small castle which is situated on the tip of the peninsula. Many people go on a boat ride and take photos of this amazing building now turned into a Rehabilitation center of Seeburg.
Things to do while in Iseltwald
When the main goal of your trip to Switzerland is to relax, consider staying in Iseltwald. You will have a serene stay that will allow you to recharge. Take a walk along the lake, hike and then have a comforting meal at one of the restaurants in the village, enjoying the Alpine views at the same time.
Have a meal at Strandhotel Restaurant
When we are talking about food, it is worth to mention Strandhotel Restaurant. Located just a few steps away from the boat dock, this restaurant offers remarkable views of the Lake Brienz and the snow-capped mountains.
The food is really tasty and the most popular are fish dishes. This is not surprising as the fish comes from the lake and is extremely fresh. The prices are reasonable as well.
Have a stroll along the lake
With your belly full you can have a stroll along the lake. The shimmering turquoise lake and the Swiss chalets lining the promenade make a view that will keep your mind at ease. You can go for a boat ride afterward, sit on a bench by the shore or return to your room to take a well-deserved nap.
Go for a hike
When you are ready for a hike you can go on one between Ieltwald and Giessbach. This is an easy 5 km hike which is very popular. You walk along the lake and through the village before you enter a shady forest path. At the end of the path, you will reach a boat dock close to the Giessbach waterfall.
It is the evidence that proves that nature in Switzerland never stops to enchant. You can reach the falls by a short ferry ride from Brienz as well. You will get to the bottom of the falls.
Take a funicular up to the Grandhotel Giessbach, hotel resembling a Disney movie castle, where you will have an amazing view of the falls and the lake. To get even closer, hike up along the falls. The path is 1 km long.
During the unbearable summer heat, the best way to cool off is to take a trip to the Alps. For an exhilarating hike try the path of the Three Waterfalls from Bönigen over Iseltwald to Brienz.
The route can be conquered by all hikers, even families. Depending on the physical fitness, you can make the entire hike in one go or several stages. It is 17.65 km long and it takes about 6 to 7 hours to finish the trail. The hike includes lakeside sections and meadows, woodlands and craggy cliffs.
The best parts are the three waterfalls, the turquoise lake Brienz, a romantic boat trip, the ride on the oldest tourist funicular in Switzerland, and a hotel resembling a fairy-tale castle.
Go on a Lake Brienz cruise
Lake Brienz cruise between Interlaken and Brienz is worth taking since you get to see the entire alpine lake in its turquoise glory. It is available from April to October.
You can have a hot beverage and something to eat during chilly spring and autumn days or enjoy a refreshing one during the summer. The cruise lasts around 75 minutes in total. There are two types of tickets for this cruise, first and second class. The first-class tickets give you access to the upper deck which offers a better view and more comfortable ride.
Explore the lake
Rent a kayak or a sup board and explore the lake. Abegglen boat rental, located in the village of Iseltwald is where you will find them. If you want to be a captain of your vessel, rent a pedalo, rowboat, or a motorboat. The motorboats can be piloted without a driving license which is a plus.
The Interlaken region
The Iseltwald village is located in the Interlaken region. It offers panoramic views of the majestic mountain peaks, deep blue Lake Thun, turquoise lake Brienz, and the idyllic Diemtigal Nature park.
You can experience beach weather and Antarctic climate during one trip. Go to the ”Top of Europe” and visit JungfrauJoch 3454 meters above sea level. This area is a place where you can experience all the customs and traditions of Switzerland.
The accommodation in the Iseltwald village can be easily found here.
When you are looking to get in touch with nature go to Iseltwald. It is a place of tranquility and freedom from disturbance. A place to unwind enjoying the amazing nature of Switzerland. Once you leave this quaint little village you will be completely relaxed, ready to conquer the world once more.
Enjoy a hefty meal, go for a hike or stroll along the lakeshore. During the nice weather, take a dip in the lake or be a captain of your boat. The Iseltwald is a perfect location when you want to spend a holiday away from the hustle and bustle of life in a crowded city. Our limousine service is always ready to take you to your desired location.
